Boss has say on Northern Ireland goalkeeping situation as Trevor Carson misses out

Carson missed out on a place at Euro 2016 after Irish boss Michael O’Neill released him after training with the squad last wek in Manchester.

SportMail reported last week how the 28-year-old was on tenterhooks with four stoppers chasing three goalie spots.

Carson did not make the cut with Hignett shocked at the news.

“I was surprised,” said the Pools boss.

“But I’m confident Trev will come back stronger from this.

“He will be gutted not to be going to France but Trev is a top class keeper and I’m sure he’ll make future squads.

“I do see him playing for Northern Ireland.”

Hignett is pleased to have the former Sunderland keeper between the sticks for Pools.

Carson, signed from Cheltenham 12 months ago, was in superb form for Pools and finished the season with FOUR player of the year awards.

“Trevor did well and deserved to win all his trophies,” said Hignett.

“He’s been unbelievable since I’ve been here, and I was delighted he signed a new three-year deal.

“It shows his commitment and ambition, and the ambition of the club to keep him.

“I consider him, without a shadow of a doubt, the best keeper in League Two, and there probably isn’t a better one in League One as well.

“He’s got it all – a good shot-stopper, has a real presence and his kicking is unbelievable.

“Trev can set us up on the attack straight away.

“Having him there too if the defence is having on off-day is fantastic.”

O’Neill selected Notts County’s Roy Carroll, Michael McGovern from Hamilton, and St Johnstone’s Alan Mannus for his three goalkeeping positions.